Start with five separate risks
| Risk | What to measure | What to verify in the policy |
|---|---|---|
| Trip cancellation | Eligible prepaid nonrefundable trip cost | Covered reasons, maximum, insured trip cost |
| Emergency medical | Existing health coverage abroad and out-of-pocket exposure | Medical maximum, deductible, exclusions, payment process |
| Medical evacuation | Remoteness and transport risk | Medical necessity, assistance coordination, benefit maximum |
| Baggage / valuables | Items actually carried | Total limit, per-item limits, excluded property |
| Delay / connections | Likely extra lodging, meals and transport | Trigger, waiting period, eligible expenses, maximum |
Do not use the trip price as the answer to every benefit
A $10,000 trip does not automatically mean $10,000 of medical coverage is appropriate, and a high medical maximum does not tell you whether cancellation protection is sufficient. Evaluate each benefit separately.
Consider what you can self-insure
If you could comfortably absorb a small baggage loss or delay, you may value those benefits less than medical evacuation or a large nonrefundable trip. The policy should address the losses you cannot easily absorb.
Recheck the trip when it changes
Adding a cruise, tour, premium airfare or new traveler can change the trip cost and the coverage you need. Save revised booking records and review the certificate again.
Use the worksheet
Open the travel insurance quote checklist and use the same inputs for each quote.